Jesse Young's Solutions

Far too often in politics there’s too much Republican vs. Democrat rhetoric that takes the focus off the crucial things we need to do to be effective. Please know that in every aspect of my public service to you, I will look to rise above such pettiness, because I believe that real experience transcends partisan politics.

Jobs

The 26th District offers a diversity of job opportunities, and I’m committed to protecting and growing:

Blue-collar, family-wage jobs that are supported by the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and the multitude of ancillary businesses in the surrounding areas.

High-wage jobs around the technology industry that our region is geographically positioned, between Tacoma and Seattle, to attract. I have already submitted a Bill (HB 2785) to assist in the establishment of information technology businesses in our District.

Small businesses which create so many jobs and bear such a heavy burden under Washington’s Business & Occupation tax.

Health Care

Obamacare is driving up insurance costs for many middle-income people, and for small business owners. There are a number of alternatives that will better meet the needs of citizens of the 26th District.

Medicaid – Most of the people signing up for Obamacare in Washington are on Medicaid, which means state government will have much higher costs to pay in the future. My focus on job creation will offer people the opportunity to obtain healthcare through their employers instead of relying on the State.

Mental health – Lack of proper funding for the mentally ill is of critical importance, and an issue which the Legislature must address in the coming years.

Fiscal responsibility

If we’re not disciplined with tax dollars, we won’t be able to do the things we need to for the citizens of Washington State. A few of the more pressing issues are:

Transportation: Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has not always been a good steward of our hard-earned tax dollars. To keep our ferries and roads properly funded, we need a better-run and cost-effective transportation system.

Our most vulnerable citizens – people with developmental disabilities and mental illness, and the homeless – rely on state leaders to prioritize spending so they have adequate support.

Education: Last, but certainly not least, the State has fallen behind on K-12 achievement and we must catch up. This is crucial if our children are to compete in a global marketplace.

A note about prioritization:

To be effective for our children and their future, it is critical that we begin to prioritize. For example, when you’re sitting at the table going over your household budget, you don’t prioritize going to the movies above putting gas in your car or food on the table. Government needs to prioritize, too, and begin to demonstrate that it can be a faithful steward of our resources.